How To Prepare For Your First Job Interview

April 24, 2017

This is a Guest Post by Delan Cooper.

If you are like most people, you would agree that going on your first job interview can be an overwhelming experience. You may have many questions, such as what to bring to a job interview and what not to do in an interview. You may also have questions about the type of resume professional writers should use and what questions to expect during the interview process. Below are some tips you will find very helpful concerning do’s and don’t’s on your first job interview:

A Timely Arrival

Although it may seem obvious, countless interviews turn out badly because the prospective employee failed to arrive on time. Being punctual shows that you are serious about the interview, and therefore it is in your best interest to find out exactly how long will it take to arrive at the interview destination. In addition, do not merely plan to be on time, rather you should plan to reach the interview location approximately 15 minutes ahead of time so that you have a few moments to catch your breath and prepare yourself for behavioural interview questions.

Use a Briefcase or Folder

Always take a professional resume with you on all interviews, and carry this and any other pertinent documents in a folder or briefcase. Carrying your resume around in your hand without a briefcase or folder makes you look somewhat disorganized. It is also wise to bring along a notepad and pen to write down answers to any questions you may have about the job during the course of the interview. If you are unsure how to write a CV consider having a professional company complete one for you.

Exude Confidence

Dress appropriately and demonstrate confidence, even if you are somewhat nervous. Make sure you know what to wear to a job interview, as dressing appropriately significantly boosts your confidence. You should also be cautious about any fragrances you use, as certain colognes and perfumes are overpowering to some people, and the last thing you want is the interviewer cutting your time short because he or she finds your fragrance offensive. Always make eye contact with the interviewer as well, as this demonstrates self-assurance.

Be Mindful of Your Actions

Tapping your pen, fidgeting, biting your nails or constantly sipping water are all signs of nervousness that should be avoided. Additionally, chewing mints or gum is never a good idea, as it demonstrates a lack of courtesy for the interviewer.

Be as Honest as You Can

Never tell lies about your qualifications, as these are almost always discovered even if it is at a future point in time. This can lead to dismissal after working so hard to land the job you desire. Social media, investigative agencies, and the Internet, in general, make it virtually impossible to create a false resume or hide things in your background that your prospective employer may want to be disclosed.

However, you do have the right to keep some facts to yourself. For example, it is certainly unwise to tell a potential employer that you suffer from migraines, allergies or other ailments, as these are always a red flag to interviewers. This is because they anticipate you missing work due to health issues, even if they are minor.

Be Enthusiastic

Always try to be enthusiastic about the company you are seeking employment with, rather than talking about how bad you were treated at your last job. Talking negatively, even if you are telling the truth about your previous employment, shows that you are more interested in the past than you are excited about a possible future with the new company. Even if you are a shy person, try to be animated and enthusiastic during the interview, as appearing dull and aloof is always on the list of what not to do in an interview.

List Your Strong Points

Many prospective employees feel as if they must act more like a supplicant than someone who would be an asset to a new company. It is important to list your strengths and achievements at some point during the interview in order to show the potential employer that you are a strong contender for the position. However, this should not be done in an arrogant way, rather take a humble and respectful approach: you simply want to give the interviewer a reason to consider you for employment.

Thank You Note

There is nothing wrong with dropping the company a thank you note once the interview is over. However, never make a pest of yourself with phone calls or e-mails to try to determine whether or not they are planning to offer you employment. They have your contact details and if you are being called back for a second interview or offered a job, they will surely get in touch with you. In fact, if you were alert during your interview you may have heard certain things interviewers say when you got the job. Nevertheless, it is never wise to bring this up, even if you think you are right.

Regardless of the position for which you are applying, following the tips outlined above will make the interview process easier. Preparation is everything, and if you are organized and have anticipated questions and answers in advance, you should do very well on your first job interview.